FreeFem++

FreeFem++ is a high-level programming language and environment tailored for solving partial differential equations (PDEs) using the finite element method. Developed at the Sorbonne University, Paris, it aims to provide a flexible and user-friendly platform for researchers and engineers working on a wide range of scientific and engineering problems.

FreeFem++ is characterized by its automatic mesh generator, which allows users to easily create and refine meshes for complex geometries. The language supports a variety of finite element spaces, including both conforming and non-conforming elements. Users can define variational formulations of PDEs directly within the code, simplifying the implementation of numerical simulations.

A key strength of FreeFem++ is its ability to handle complex multi-physics problems involving interactions between different physical phenomena, such as fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and electromagnetism. The language supports parallel computing, enabling users to solve large-scale problems efficiently on multi-core processors or distributed computing systems. FreeFem++ also offers capabilities for optimization, allowing users to design and control systems described by PDEs. The software is open-source, distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL), fostering community development and collaboration.